Chapter 17 Verse 15
Śhraddhā Traya Vibhāg Yog
अनुद्वेगकरं वाक्यं सत्यं प्रियहितं च यत्।स्वाध्यायाभ्यसनं चैव वाङ्मयं तप उच्यते।।17.15।।
anudvega-karaṁ vākyaṁ satyaṁ priya-hitaṁ cha yat svādhyāyābhyasanaṁ chaiva vāṅ-mayaṁ tapa uchyate
Word Meanings
| anudvega-karam | not causing distress |
| vākyam | words |
| satyam | truthful |
| priya- hitam | beneficial |
| cha | and |
| yat | which |
| svādhyāya-abhyasanam | recitation of the Vedic scriptures |
| cha eva | as well as |
| vāṅ-mayam | of speech |
| tapaḥ | austerity |
| uchyate | are declared as |
Translation
Speech that causes no excitement, is truthful, pleasant, and beneficial; the practice of studying the Vedas is called austerity of speech.
Philosophical Significance
Core Meaning
The verse says that true spiritual speech is calm, honest, pleasant, and useful. Words that do not disturb others, that tell the truth with kindness, and that help people are a form of inner practice.
It also teaches that regular study and recitation of sacred teaching (svādhyāya) is a discipline of speech. Repeating and reflecting on wise words trains the mind, shapes how you speak, and makes your speech an act of self-control and growth.
Together, calm truthful speech and steady study are not just rituals but ways to bring peace into your life and relationships. They turn everyday talking into a simple spiritual practice.
Life Application
- Before speaking, pause briefly and ask: Is this true, kind, and helpful? If not, hold back or reframe it.
- Set a short daily time (even 5–10 minutes) to read, recite, or reflect on a meaningful verse or passage to steady the mind.
- Replace gossip or sharp comments with constructive words; focus on tone and purpose, not just being right.
Reflection Question
Do my words bring calm and help, or do they stir up tension?